BRD for Successful Project Execution

Why I never say Yes to a project without a BRD. I either drop it, or we have to agree to make one.

Importance of a Business Requirement Document (BRD) for Successful Project Execution

When working on data-heavy projects that involve developing machine learning models and directly interacting with key stakeholders, having a well-defined Business Requirement Document (BRD) is crucial. A BRD acts as a blueprint for the project, ensuring that all team members and stakeholders are aligned on the goals, scope, and deliverables. Without a BRD, projects can easily suffer from scope creep, miscommunication, and a lack of clear direction. This post will serve as a guideline for students on how to approach their projects using a BRD, which will be a critical tool throughout the year.

Why a BRD is Essential

1. Reduces Scope Creep

A BRD helps to clearly define what is and isn’t part of the project. This clarity prevents additional, unplanned tasks from creeping into the project scope, which can derail timelines and resources.

2. Aligns Project Goals

By outlining the project goals and getting sign-off from all stakeholders, the BRD ensures that everyone involved has the same understanding of the project’s objectives. This alignment is crucial for the project’s success.

3. Formalizes Project Efforts

A BRD serves as a formal document that tracks the progress of the project. It provides a reference point for what has been agreed upon, making it easier to track milestones and hold team members accountable.

Steps to Create a BRD

1. Sign-off Grid

• Purpose: To document agreement from all team members on the project goals and timeline.
• Action: List each team member’s name, email, and the date they signed off on the BRD. This ensures that everyone is on the same page from the start.

2. Problem Statement

• Purpose: To clearly define the focus of the project.
• Action: Write a concise statement that outlines the problem the project aims to solve.

3. Background & Context

• Purpose: To provide the necessary background information and define the scope of the project.
• Action: Describe the context of the project, including what is in scope and what is not. This section should give all stakeholders a clear understanding of the project’s environment and limitations.

4. Business Impact Metrics

• Purpose: To set benchmarks and KPIs that will measure the project’s success.
• Action: Define the metrics that will be used to assess the project’s impact. These should be quantifiable and directly linked to the project’s goals.

5. Business Requirements

• Purpose: To list all the features and deliverables that the project will produce.
• Action: Document the key business requirements, prioritizing them based on their importance to the project’s success. Each requirement should have a clear description and rationale.

6. Key Dates

• Purpose: To establish a timeline for the project.
• Action: Define the key phases of the project and the dates by which deliverables are expected. This timeline will help manage expectations and keep the project on track.

7. Resources

• Purpose: To list any additional materials or references that are relevant to the project.
• Action: Include links to documents, code files, or other resources that team members may need throughout the project.

Suggested Template for Your BRD

# Business Requirement Document (BRD)

**Project Name:** [Insert Project Name]  
**Status:** [Draft/Final]  
**Last Updated:** [Insert Date]  
**Authors:** [Insert Author Names]  
**Collaborators:** [Insert Collaborator Names]

## Table of Contents

1. [Sign-off Grid](#sign-off-grid)
2. [Problem Statement](#problem-statement)
3. [Background & Context](#background--context)
4. [Business Impact Metrics](#business-impact-metrics)
5. [Business Requirements](#business-requirements)
6. [Key Dates](#key-dates)
7. [Resources](#resources)

## Sign-off Grid

| Team Member | Role | Date |
| ----------- | ---- | ---- |
| [Name] | [Role] | [Date] |
| [Name] | [Role] | [Date] |

## Problem Statement

[Insert Problem Statement]
[min 2 - 4 sentences]

## Background & Context

[Insert Background & Context]
[Min 2 - 4 paragraphs describing the project background and context. Detail what is in scope and not in scope]

## Business Impact Metrics

[Insert Business Impact Metrics]
[1 - 2 paragraphs describing the metrics and benchmark to gauge project success]

## Business Requirements

| Requirements | Priority | Notes |
| ------------ | -------- | ----- |
| [Requirement 1] | [P0/P1] | [Notes] |
| [Requirement 2] | [P0/P1] | [Notes] |

## Key Dates

| Phase | Artifact | Date | Owner | Status |
| ----- | -------- | ---- | ------ | ------ |
| [Phase 1] | [Artifact] | [Date] | [Owner] | [Status] |
| [Phase 2] | [Artifact] | [Date] | [Owner] | [Status] |

## Resources

* Technical Design Doc: <link>
* Related Docs: <link>
* Artifacts: <link>

An example of Business Requirements

An example of Key Dates

By following this guideline and using the provided template, students can ensure that their projects are well-structured and have a clear path to success. The BRD is not just a formality but a strategic tool that helps to drive the project forward with clarity and purpose.

Need to read more?
Have a look at this post published on Stanford University’s website. It provides an in-depth guide on creating a Business Requirements Document (BRD), outlining the process, benefits, and tips for successful implementation. This resource is invaluable for project teams looking to enhance clarity, efficiency, and communication throughout their project development and delivery.